Organic essential oil - Geranium

Latin Name: Pelargonium GraveolensPart of the plant used: leaves, stems and flowersSource: South AfricaExtraction method: steam distillationOrganic geranium essential oil is steam distilled from the leaves and stems of the Pelargonium odoratissimum (apple geranium) plant. It has a strong smell with a floral aroma and hints of mint and apple. The main feature of this oil is its ability to balance and elevate itself, and it is used for both the mind and body, to relieve a host of ailments. Geranium essential oil helps balance oily and dry skin, and also brings about balance in the mind, relieving stress and anxiety. It is said to work in the adrenal cortex, which has a balancing effect on the hormonal system. Geranium oil has been used to treat acne, bruises, burns, cuts, dermatitis, eczema, hemorrhoids, ringworm, ulcers, breast congestion, edema, poor circulation, sore throat, tonsillitis, PMS, menopausal problems, stress, and neuralgia. Its strong smell repels mosquitoes. Add a few drops to shampoo to get rid of lice. These geraniums were believed to keep spirits away (as mosquitoes did!), so they were planted around houses like hedges. The plants originated in South Africa, Réunion, Madagascar, Egypt, and Morocco and were introduced to European countries in the 17th century. Although there are about 700 varieties of the plant, only 10 supply essential oil in viable amounts. Varieties planted in gardens generally produce very little oil to use in extraction.